Sunday, June 22, 2008

Health Tips for June 22

Health Tip: Grinding Your Teeth?

Frequent grinding of the teeth is a condition known as bruxism. Depending on severity, it could cause anything from pain and discomfort to fractures of the teeth.

Here's more information about bruxism, courtesy of the American Dental Association:

* Bruxism may involve clenching of the jaw as well as tooth grinding.
* Triggers may include stress, sleep problems, crooked or missing teeth, or anxiety.
* Symptoms can include headache, painful teeth and a sore jaw.
* Preventives may include a mouth guard to wear during sleep, muscle relaxants, and counseling to deal with stress.

Health Tip: Back Pain in Children

In a child, back pain is different from back pain in adults. Particularly in children under age 4, it indicates a serious underlying problem, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says.

You should see your doctor if your child has back pain, the academy says, especially if accompanied by any of these other symptoms:

* Fever.
* Weight loss.
* Feelings of weakness or numbness.
* Difficulty walking.
* Pain that extends through one or both legs, or if it prevents your child from sleeping.
* Issues with the bowels or bladder.

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